Document type: press release published by Eurogroup for Animals
Author: Eurogroup for Animals
Preview: A newly-launched survey conducted across nine EU member states has highlighted public concern for the plight of millions of animals transported over long distances, with an overwhelming majority supporting the need for stricter rules. Eight out of ten participants (80%) agree that long-distance journeys cause unnecessary suffering to animals, in particular for vulnerable animals, with up to 84% supporting stricter rules or a ban for pregnant or unweaned animals. Each year, over one billion animals are transported on journeys lasting up to three weeks. Almost 9 out of 10 (89%) of citizens agree that transporting animals in extreme hot or cold conditions poses a risk to their welfare. Within the EU, animals often endure temperatures as high as 50 degrees Celsius, deprived of basic needs. Animals suffer greatly during transport—overcrowded in trucks, they suffer from exhaustion, dehydration, and stress leading to injuries and often death. Unweaned animals are deprived of necessary nutrition and are extremely prone to disease.
These survey results emerge as the European Parliament is reviewing the Transport Regulation, yet proposed amendments have raised significant concerns among animal welfare advocates, as some proposals may significantly undermine the welfare of animals. 72% of survey participants expressed concern about the potential weakening of the EU’s live animal transport rules, and the same percentage expressed strong support for stricter national and EU laws. Meanwhile, over 12,500 citizens have written to their MEPs urging ambitious reforms. The survey by Savanta interviewed 8,531 adults between October and November 2025 across Belgium, Cyprus, France, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Spain.
